Tag: Jon Amokah

Amokah vs Smyth: The Results

01 Dec
Michael Dilley All News, Features , , , ,

In our most recent Head to Head of the season Offensive Lineman Jon Amokah took on Gameday Manager Paul Smyth. Here’s how they got on…

Eagles 14 Lions 45

AMOKAH: I said it last time and I’ll say it again: the Detroit Lions are way too talented for the record they have. Also there is only one team of Eagles that deserve a winning record and it’s not from Philadelphia. Lines for the win. Happy Thanksgiving, gobble gobble!
RESULT: Win! 1-0.

SMYTH: Detroit is twinned with Beirut except that most people would pick Beirut as a holiday destination. If Philly were much better they’d win by more. Eagles to win.
RESULT: Lose! 0-1.

Panthers 33 Cowboys 14

AMOKAH: Something else I’ve said before: Carolina is an underrated team. Also I really hate Dallas. I hated the TV show, I hated Bruce Willis as Corbin Dallas in the fifth element and I hate the Dallas Cowboys. Carolina for the win by loads.
RESULT: Win! 2-0.

SMYTH: Carolina looking pretty decent these days and Dallas are still “blessed” with Tony ‘Way to blow it’ Romo…Dallas will make a fist of it and look like they’re going to get in the game but the Panthers will blow them away. Panthers win.
RESULT: Win! 1-1.

Bears 17 Packers 13

AMOKAH: Jay Cutler and Aaron Rodgers appear to be two sides of the same coin. No scratch that Jay Cutler is a douche. Rodgers is actually a pretty funny guy. He likes his offensive line and his offensive line kind of like him. Draycott on the other hand hates his offensive line and his offensive line get free money for not blocking for him. Although both teams appear to be in a quagmire right now I see no version of events where Green Bay do not beat Chicago like the unwanted stepchildren they are. That’s right I said it. Nobody likes Chicago. Chicago doesn’t like Chicago. Why are they even here?
RESULT: Lose! 2-1.

SMYTH: This pains me but even though the Slackers are slacking, Fox seems to have given up on the season as a contest and is determined to experiment. Three TD passes and two pick sixes for Cutler. Packers win.
RESULT: Lose! 1-2.

Vikings 20 Falcons 10

AMOKAH: That Adrian Peterson is quite useful isn’t he? Since losing their unbeaten streak, Atlanta have been the model of inconsistency particularly in defence. Sober Adrian Peterson guy should run roughshod all over the Falcons. Vikings to bounce back for the win against Falcons!
RESULT: Win! 3-1.

SMYTH: Minnesota to beat Atlanta by a score, because well bleugh. Not really fancying either side but look for one of the Falcon D-Line to make a comment about spanking Peterson who’ll go on to a 200 yard game and three TDs.
RESULT: Win! 2-2.

Rams 7 Bengals 31

AMOKAH: For those who have been at training recently, you would notice I have spent time in the install, trying to RKO a lineman in front of me. Basically I like Randy Orton and he’s from St Louis. I don’t like the Miz, and he’s from Cincinnati Ohio (ed – pretty sure he’s from Cleveland but whatever). RKO over skull crushing finale any day of the week so St Louis win because of Randy Orton.
RESULT: Lose! 3-2.

SMYTH: Cincinnati to beat St Louis by three scores. The Bengals are the surprise package this year and the Rams are, well, the Rams.
RESULT: Win! 3-2.

Saints 6 Texans 24

AMOKAH: I thought New Orleans were supposed to be good this year. I also thought JJ Watt was going to be good this year too. A few mistakes have been made and quite frankly up until this point, New Orleans and JJ Watt, you have failed these cities! (I always try to fit in an Arrow reference when I can) so basically the question is which team is going to act right this week? Maybe Houston actually remember they have an offence and actually do something this week. I am officially giving up on New Orleans. Houston for the win.
RESULT: Win! 4-2.

SMYTH: Houston to beat New Orleans by a score. The Saints are having a poor season this year, struggling at the foot of their division and the Texans are not at their best but not at their worst. We won’t see the best from either side but the Texans will prevail.
RESULT: Win! 4-2.

Buccaneers 12 Colts 25

AMOKAH: Andrew Luck has still failed to say sorry for the reason why I’m still angry with the Colts. I am performing my rain dance, shaking off the voodoo doll, and just for good measure I’ve got snipers at the building ready to take Luck out. Tampa Bay for the win. Tampa Bay you’re welcome.
RESULT: Lose! 4-3.

SMYTH: Tampa to beat Indy by field goal. Neither the Bucs nor Indy are pulling up any trees but Tampa will shade this when Hasslebeck takes his afternoon nap in the 3rd quarter with Andrew Luck still injured.
RESULT: Lose! 4-3.

Chargers 31 Jaguars 25

AMOKAH: At this point it seems as though Jacksonville are figuratively sticking a middle finger up at the rest of the world. Maybe they’ll not win the Super Bowl this year, but that doesn’t mean but I’m not at the ticket office to jump on that bandwagon when it gets here. San Diego recently have found new and twisted ways of losing games. Jaguars win this convincingly. Or maybe they take the lead, remember that they’re the Jags, and let San Diego go back into it, only to win it by a single score.
RESULT: Lose! 4-4.

SMYTH: Jacksonville to beat San Diego by ten. The Jags are starting to show a bit of spirit this season, looking like they might actually win a couple more games – and the Chargers look like they’d struggle against my Nan and she’s been dead 20 years!
RESULT: Lose! 4-4.

Bills 22 Chiefs 30

AMOKAH: In the battle of how people like their chicken, both KC and Buffalo are capable of beating each other. Hang on, wait a minute, didn’t tie Rod Taylor come back? Yeah, Buffalo Bills with this. I like Andy Reid and what he’s doing in Kansas but let’s face it buffalo wings are always better than Kentucky fried chicken….I think.
RESULT: Lose! 4-5.

SMYTH: KC to beat Buffalo by two scores. The Chiefs and the Bills are another pairing of teams with .500 records but based on what I saw at Wembley the Chiefs are a much better prospect.
RESULT: Win! 5-4.

Dolphins 20 Jets 38

AMOKAH: I like New York, it’s such a magical place. It’s got Times Square, it’s got the Empire State building, and it also has the greatest NFL team of all time. Sadly that team is not the Jets. However, with that defence, it’s one of the best going today. Miami have been the one of the most inconsistent teams this year. Normally I would say, it depends on which Miami turns up this week. However the Jets have something, so that throws everything out the window. Jets win.
RESULT: Win! 5-5.

SMYTH: Jets to beat Miami by two scores. Pretty much a repeat of their Wembley game. While firing Spagnola gave the Phins a lift briefly I don’t think they’ve got much here and are just lucky the Jets haven’t got much more.
RESULT: Win! 6-4.

Raiders 24 Titans 21

AMOKAH: Do you think Oakland know that they’re not supposed to be good? Do they know that they are supposed to prop up the AFC West? Clearly they don’t. With some of the results we’ve had this year, one can be forgiven for mistaking Derek Carr and company for actual contenders. At least Tennessee know their place right? Actually hang on, I don’t buy one game away from topping the AFC South? Dammit can this team stop being good now? I don’t know why but Tennessee wins.
RESULT: Lose! 5-6.

SMYTH: Tennessee to beat Oakland by a score. An embarrassment of mediocrity but the Titans to shock the slightly less woeful Raiders by a score.
RESULT: Lose! 6-5.

Giants 14 Redskins 20

AMOKAH: My beautiful beloved Giants. Let me count the ways in which I love you. Washington have nothing on you. The day that Kirk Cousins comes anywhere close to Eli Manning is the day I turn the gun on myself. Giants win by eight scores while Eli Manning throws nine touchdown passes.
RESULT: Lose! 5-7.

SMYTH: Giants to beat Washington by ten. Just can’t see the Redskins winning this divisional match up. They don’t have the best of records against the Giants.
RESULT: Lose! 6-6.

Cardinals 19 49ers 13

AMOKAH: Easy Peasy, Arizona, next!
RESULT: Win! 6-7.

SMYTH: Arizona to beat San Francisco by three scores. Ok right now I think Norwich could beat the 49ers (ed – steady) but I can see the Cardinals going easy and putting the 3rd string on.
RESULT: Win! 7-6.

Steelers 30 Seahawks 39

AMOKAH: Seattle are a very complicated team. We know they’re going to make the play-offs, however they are clearly making it as dramatic as they can. Pittsburgh pretty much on the same course, even fitting it in major injuries. Big Ben and Russell Wilson or too good to mess in the play-offs. However, only one of them can win this game, and this is a must-win game. Pittsburgh seem to need it more and will hurt themselves in the process. That justifies a Seattle win.
RESULT: Win! 7-7.

SMYTH: Pittsburgh to beat Seattle by two scores. Nothing particularly in this one by I can see Big Ben taking this one for the Steelers.
RESULT: Lose! 7-7.

Patriots 24 Broncos 30

AMOKAH: Tom Brady has always been the better quarterback in the age-old question “who is better – Tom Brady, or Peyton Manning?” Tom Brady keeps getting better, Peyton Manning has been replaced with some dude called Brock. Tom Brady has never lost in his first encounter with any quarterback. This Brock guy doesn’t really stand a chance. TB12 for the win – also, he has a team with him called the Patriots.
RESULT: Lose! 7-8.

SMYTH: Prats to beat Broncos by three scores. Well it pains me but I can’t see anything but a convincing win for the chea…Patriots. The rest of this comment has been removed for legal reasons.
RESULT: Lose! 7-8.

Ravens 33 Browns 27

AMOKAH: Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Johnny football benched! Ha ha her her her her her ha ha. I still think with a terrible running back situation Baltimore are going to run all over Cleveland. Joe Hayden is not the force he was last year, And it’s very difficult to see what Cleveland have to offer. Admittedly Baltimore on not in the best of situations, but when they go to bed on the last game of the Thanksgiving weekend they will definitely be thankful that they are not Cleveland ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!
RESULT: Win! 8-8.

SMYTH: Ravens to beat Browns by two scores. Ravens just slightly less woeful than the Browns at the moment, having dropped Johnny Manziel due to being unable to get him out of the pub poor form I don’t see it bringing any improvement.
RESULT: Win! 8-8.

As a result of this week’s scores the Coaches and Staff have stopped the rot, but the Players still lead by 93-66 to 87-72. Be sure to check back on Thursday for this week’s predictions.

Did any of this week’s results in the NFL surprise you? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet.

Previous Results

Wide Receiver Chris Cowley 6-10 vs Offensive Coordinator Neale McMaster 6-10
Tight End Jack Judge 11-5 vs Head Coach Will White 13-3
Offensive Lineman Danny Cousins 8-7 vs Vice Chairman Mark Chilton 9-6
Running Back Matt Duffin 10-4 vs Running Back Coach Neil Duffy 10-4
Wide Receiver Jack Davis-Fletcher 6-8 vs Treasurer Michael Dilley 8-6
Offensive Lineman Jon Amokah 11-3 vs Youth Team Head Coach Nick Benning 8-6
Lineman of the Year John Rudgard 9-5 vs Special Teams Coordinator Gary Villiers 7-7
Defensive MVP Gareth Pullen 6-7 vs Chairman and Offensive Coordinator Neale McMaster 5-8
Running Back Paul Settle 6-6 vs Defensive Coordinator Darren Hill 5-7
Defensive Back James Drake 11-3 vs Treasurer Nick Chapman

You can let us know what you think of their predictions by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet. Be sure to check back to Tuesday to see how they got on.

Head to Head: Amokah vs Smyth

26 Nov
Michael Dilley All News, Features , , , ,

If there’s one thing sure to split opinion quickly it’s the age-old battle of who knows more about the NFL, the players or the staff?

To try and resolve the issue once and for all players take on coaches and backroom staff one on one to see who really knows their stuff.

The concept is pretty simple: each week one Eagles player and one staff member will go head to head predicting the outcome of the weekend’s NFL games, and by the end of the season the true power houses will emerge.

This week we have Offensive Lineman Jon Amokah taking on Gameday Manager Paul Smyth. So far the players have the lead with a score of 85-58 to 79-64, but let’s see what the weekend has in store…

Eagles @ Lions

AMOKAH: I said it last time and I’ll say it again: the Detroit Lions are way too talented for the record they have. Also there is only one team of Eagles that deserve a winning record and it’s not from Philadelphia. Lines for the win. Happy Thanksgiving, gobble gobble!

SMYTH: Detroit is twinned with Beirut except that most people would pick Beirut as a holiday destination. If Philly were much better they’d win by more. Eagles to win.

Panthers @ Cowboys

AMOKAH: Something else I’ve said before: Carolina is an underrated team. Also I really hate Dallas. I hated the TV show, I hated Bruce Willis as Corbin Dallas in the fifth element and I hate the Dallas Cowboys. Carolina for the win by loads.

SMYTH: Carolina looking pretty decent these days and Dallas are still “blessed” with Tony ‘Way to blow it’ Romo…Dallas will make a fist of it and look like they’re going to get in the game but the Panthers will blow them away. Panthers win.

Bears @ Packers

AMOKAH: Jay Cutler and Aaron Rodgers appear to be two sides of the same coin. No scratch that Jay Cutler is a douche. Rodgers is actually a pretty funny guy. He likes his offensive line and his offensive line kind of like him. Draycott on the other hand hates his offensive line and his offensive line get free money for not blocking for him. Although both teams appear to be in a quagmire right now I see no version of events where Green Bay do not beat Chicago like the unwanted stepchildren they are. That’s right I said it. Nobody likes Chicago. Chicago doesn’t like Chicago. Why are they even here?

SMYTH: This pains me but even though the Slackers are slacking, Fox seems to have given up on the season as a contest and is determined to experiment. Three TD passes and two pick sixes for Cutler. Packers win.

Vikings @ Falcons

AMOKAH: That Adrian Peterson is quite useful isn’t he? Since losing their unbeaten streak, Atlanta have been the model of inconsistency particularly in defence. Sober Adrian Peterson guy should run roughshod all over the Falcons. Vikings to bounce back for the win against Falcons!

SMYTH: Minnesota to beat Atlanta by a score, because well bleugh. Not really fancying either side but look for one of the Falcon D-Line to make a comment about spanking Peterson who’ll go on to a 200 yard game and three TDs.

Rams @ Bengals

AMOKAH: For those who have been at training recently, you would notice I have spent time in the install, trying to RKO a lineman in front of me. Basically I like Randy Orton and he’s from St Louis. I don’t like the Miz, and he’s from Cincinnati Ohio (ed – pretty sure he’s from Cleveland but whatever). RKO over skull crushing finale any day of the week so St Louis win because of Randy Orton.

SMYTH: Cincinnati to beat St Louis by three scores. The Bengals are the surprise package this year and the Rams are, well, the Rams.

Texans @ Saints

AMOKAH: I thought New Orleans were supposed to be good this year. I also thought JJ Watt was going to be good this year too. A few mistakes have been made and quite frankly up until this point, New Orleans and JJ Watt, you have failed these cities! (I always try to fit in an Arrow reference when I can) so basically the question is which team is going to act right this week? Maybe Houston actually remember they have an offence and actually do something this week. I am officially giving up on New Orleans. Houston for the win.

SMYTH: Houston to beat New Orleans by a score. The Saints are having a poor season this year, struggling at the foot of their division and the Texans are not at their best but not at their worst. We won’t see the best from either side but the Texans will prevail.

Buccaneers @ Colts

AMOKAH: Andrew Luck has still failed to say sorry for the reason why I’m still angry with the Colts. I am performing my rain dance, shaking off the voodoo doll, and just for good measure I’ve got snipers at the building ready to take Luck out. Tampa Bay for the win. Tampa Bay you’re welcome.

SMYTH: Tampa to beat Indy by field goal. Neither the Bucs nor Indy are pulling up any trees but Tampa will shade this when Hasslebeck takes his afternoon nap in the 3rd quarter with Andrew Luck still injured.

Chargers @ Jaguars

AMOKAH: At this point it seems as though Jacksonville are figuratively sticking a middle finger up at the rest of the world. Maybe they’ll not win the Super Bowl this year, but that doesn’t mean but I’m not at the ticket office to jump on that bandwagon when it gets here. San Diego recently have found new and twisted ways of losing games. Jaguars win this convincingly. Or maybe they take the lead, remember that they’re the Jags, and let San Diego go back into it, only to win it by a single score.

SMYTH: Jacksonville to beat San Diego by ten. The Jags are starting to show a bit of spirit this season, looking like they might actually win a couple more games – and the Chargers look like they’d struggle against my Nan and she’s been dead 20 years!

Bills @ Chiefs

AMOKAH: In the battle of how people like their chicken, both KC and Buffalo are capable of beating each other. Hang on, wait a minute, didn’t tie Rod Taylor come back? Yeah, Buffalo Bills with this. I like Andy Reid and what he’s doing in Kansas but let’s face it buffalo wings are always better than Kentucky fried chicken….I think.

SMYTH: KC to beat Buffalo by two scores. The Chiefs and the Bills are another pairing of teams with .500 records but based on what I saw at Wembley the Chiefs are a much better prospect.

Dolphins @ Jets

AMOKAH: I like New York, it’s such a magical place. It’s got Times Square, it’s got the Empire State building, and it also has the greatest NFL team of all time. Sadly that team is not the Jets. However, with that defence, it’s one of the best going today. Miami have been the one of the most inconsistent teams this year. Normally I would say, it depends on which Miami turns up this week. However the Jets have something, so that throws everything out the window. Jets win.

SMYTH: Jets to beat Miami by two scores. Pretty much a repeat of their Wembley game. While firing Spagnola gave the Phins a lift briefly I don’t think they’ve got much here and are just lucky the Jets haven’t got much more.

Raiders @ Titans

AMOKAH: Do you think Oakland know that they’re not supposed to be good? Do they know that they are supposed to prop up the AFC West? Clearly they don’t. With some of the results we’ve had this year, one can be forgiven for mistaking Derek Carr and company for actual contenders. At least Tennessee know their place right? Actually hang on, I don’t buy one game away from topping the AFC South? Dammit can this team stop being good now? I don’t know why but Tennessee wins.

SMYTH: Tennessee to beat Oakland by a score. An embarrassment of mediocrity but the Titans to shock the slightly less woeful Raiders by a score.

Giants @ Redskins

AMOKAH: My beautiful beloved Giants. Let me count the ways in which I love you. Washington have nothing on you. The day that Kirk Cousins comes anywhere close to Eli Manning is the day I turn the gun on myself. Giants win by eight scores while Eli Manning throws nine touchdown passes.

SMYTH: Giants to beat Washington by ten. Just can’t see the Redskins winning this divisional match up. They don’t have the best of records against the Giants.

Cardinals @ 49ers

AMOKAH: Easy Peasy, Arizona, next!

SMYTH: Arizona to beat San Francisco by three scores. Ok right now I think Norwich could beat the 49ers (ed – steady) but I can see the Cardinals going easy and putting the 3rd string on.

Steelers @ Seahawks

AMOKAH: Seattle are a very complicated team. We know they’re going to make the play-offs, however they are clearly making it as dramatic as they can. Pittsburgh pretty much on the same course, even fitting it in major injuries. Big Ben and Russell Wilson or too good to mess in the play-offs. However, only one of them can win this game, and this is a must-win game. Pittsburgh seem to need it more and will hurt themselves in the process. That justifies a Seattle win.

SMYTH: Pittsburgh to beat Seattle by two scores. Nothing particularly in this one by I can see Big Ben taking this one for the Steelers.

Patriots @ Broncos

AMOKAH: Tom Brady has always been the better quarterback in the age-old question “who is better – Tom Brady, or Peyton Manning?” Tom Brady keeps getting better, Peyton Manning has been replaced with some dude called Brock. Tom Brady has never lost in his first encounter with any quarterback. This Brock guy doesn’t really stand a chance. TB12 for the win – also, he has a team with him called the Patriots.

SMYTH: Prats to beat Broncos by three scores. Well it pains me but I can’t see anything but a convincing win for the chea…Patriots. The rest of this comment has been removed for legal reasons.

Ravens @ Browns

AMOKAH: Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Johnny football benched! Ha ha her her her her her ha ha. I still think with a terrible running back situation Baltimore are going to run all over Cleveland. Joe Hayden is not the force he was last year, And it’s very difficult to see what Cleveland have to offer. Admittedly Baltimore on not in the best of situations, but when they go to bed on the last game of the Thanksgiving weekend they will definitely be thankful that they are not Cleveland ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!

SMYTH: Ravens to beat Browns by two scores. Ravens just slightly less woeful than the Browns at the moment, having dropped Johnny Manziel due to being unable to get him out of the pub poor form I don’t see it bringing any improvement.

Summary

Match Amokah Smyth
Eagles @ Lions Lions Eagles
Panthers @ Cowboys Panthers Panthers
Bears @ Packers Packers Packers
Vikings @ Falcons Vikings Vikings
Rams @ Bengals Rams Bengals
Saints @ Texans Texans Texans
Buccaneers @ Colts Bucs Bucs
Chargers @ Jaguars Jaguars Jaguars
Bills @ Chiefs Bills Chiefs
Dolphins @ Jets Jets Jets
Raiders @ Titans Titans Titans
Giants @ Redskins Giants Giants
Cardinals @ 49ers Cardinals Cardinals
Steelers @ Seahawks Seahawks Steelers
Patriots @ Broncos Patriots Patriots
Ravens @ Browns Ravens Ravens


Previous Results

Wide Receiver Chris Cowley 6-10 vs Offensive Coordinator Neale McMaster 6-10
Tight End Jack Judge 11-5 vs Head Coach Will White 13-3
Offensive Lineman Danny Cousins 8-7 vs Vice Chairman Mark Chilton 9-6
Running Back Matt Duffin 10-4 vs Running Back Coach Neil Duffy 10-4
Wide Receiver Jack Davis-Fletcher 6-8 vs Treasurer Michael Dilley 8-6
Offensive Lineman Jon Amokah 11-3 vs Youth Team Head Coach Nick Benning 8-6
Lineman of the Year John Rudgard 9-5 vs Special Teams Coordinator Gary Villiers 7-7
Defensive MVP Gareth Pullen 6-7 vs Chairman and Offensive Coordinator Neale McMaster 5-8
Running Back Paul Settle 6-6 vs Defensive Coordinator Darren Hill 5-7
Defensive Back James Drake 11-3 vs Treasurer Nick Chapman

You can let us know what you think of their predictions by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet. Be sure to check back to Tuesday to see how they got on.

Amokah vs Benning: The Results

27 Oct
Michael Dilley All News, Features , , ,

In our sixth Head to Head of the season Offensive Lineman Jon Amokah took on Youth Team Head Coach Nick Benning. Here’s how they got on…

Seahawks 20 49ers 3

AMOKAH: “Everyone knows all is not well with the Seahawks defence,” said Jon ahead of Thursday Night Football. “Question is, do Kaepernick and co have what it takes to capitalise?” He thought they did, turns out they really, really didn’t. Not a brilliant start. 0-1.

logo_color_squareBENNING: Correctly predicted Russell Wilson to continue his strong streak against the 9ers, who are in freefall. Coach is off to the best possible start. 1-0.

Bills 31 Jaguars 34

AMOKAH: What a ridiculous game this was, with the Jags threatening to blow the Bills out of the water before remembering that they’re the Jags and very, very nearly throwing it away. Anywho, Jon called a big day for Jacksonville, who got their first Wembley win. 1-1.

logo_color_squareBENNING: He was worried the game would be dull for those in attendance, but it turned out to be arguably one of the most entertaining games in the history of the International Series. Also backed the Bills incorrectly, so it’s back down to earth with a bang for Benning as he’s also now 1-1.

Vikings 28 Lions 19

AMOKAH: He went on record to say the Lions “are too talented to be a 1-5 team”. Well they’re now a 1-6 team Jon, are they too talented for that? Fortunately for the big man he had the foresight to still predict a Vikings win, and that takes him to 2-1.

logo_color_squareBENNING: One of our resident Vikings fans, was he ever going to go for anything other than an away win? Of course not, and he was spot on to do so. 2-1.

Saints 27 Colts 21

AMOKAH: We’re all for grudges, especially if they’re left unexplained like why Mr Amokah thinks the Colts are “too big for their bridges” (we think he meant “britches”but it’s fine). No questions asked, the Saints win and Jon moves to 3-1.

logo_color_squareBENNING: “On paper I should probably go for the Colts, but on the back of Brees and the boys getting the win against the previously undefeated Falcons, I can feel the Saints hitting form” he said. Good job he didn’t talk himself out of it. 3-1.

Steelers 13 Chiefs 23

AMOKAH: The Steelers were supposed to keep strong thanks to their “Next Man Up” mentality, but they didn’t and Jon moves to 3-2.

logo_color_squareBENNING: Coach Benning is still nipping at Amokah’s toes thanks to this Pittsburgh loss on the road at London-bound Kansas City, he’s also 3-2.

Texans 26 Dolphins 44

AMOKAH: Oh boy, this isn’t going to be pretty. The only unit he said he trusted in this match up was the Texans offense. Not sure what Ryan Tannehill, Lamar Miller and the rest of the Dolphins thought of that when they were up by 40-odd points at the half. 3-3.

logo_color_squareBENNING: So, are the ‘Fins back or are the Texans really are as bad as we think they are? Maybe it’s both, but all that matters now is that Benning is also 3-3.

Jets 23 Patriots 30

AMOKAH: “There are three things in life you don’t do. You don’t tug on Superman’s Cape, you don’t put Baby in the corner and you sure as hell do not give Belichick and Brady something to prove.” Sums it up quite nicely for me, and puts Jon back on the right track. 4-3.

logo_color_squareBENNING: Correctly predicted yet another win for the Pats to also move to 4-3.


Browns 6 Rams 24

AMOKAH: Went with the Rams on a toin coss, and they duly took the Browns apart. Amokah goes to an impressive 5-3.

logo_color_squareBENNING: Broke the mould by backing the Browns on the road in St Louis, and it cost him his winning streak. Coach is now playing catch up at 4-4.

Falcons 10 Titans 7

AMOKAH: Our lineman hasn’t got a lot wrong this week (apart from thinking the Falcons were still undefeated), and he called this one right as well. On to 6-3.

logo_color_squareBENNING: Reckoned Atlanta would win by three scores. They didn’t, winning instead by three points, but a win’s a win and Nick is back in the game at 5-4.

Buccaneers 30 Redskins 31

AMOKAH: If you know a Tampa Bay fan you might want to give them a hug this week after the ‘Skins staged the biggest comeback in franchise history to sneak by the hapless Bucs. Jon said he marginally favoured the home side, and they marginally won. 7-3.

logo_color_squareBENNING: Nick said he’d be impressed if either of these teams managed to win, and for a while it didn’t look like either side wanted to. In the end though he went for the wrong side, moves to 5-5, and maybe that’s that.

Raiders 37 Chargers 29

AMOKAH: The Raiders raced into a huge lead before taking their foot off the gas and eventually only beating the Chargers by one score in this battle for second in the AFC West. Jon said that Oakland would win, and it takes him to 8-3.

logo_color_squareBENNING: Nick spent an age describing why he wanted the Raiders to win…and then backed the Chargers. He should have known better, and surely it’s game over now. 5-6.

Cowboys 20 Giants 27

AMOKAH: Said Jon of this NFC East battle: “everyone knows exactly how the ‘Boys are going to blow this one. The Defence will hold up, but the offence will continually stall”. Bang on, and he’s 9-3.

logo_color_squareBENNING: Coach got this one right, even if did say the Giants defence would get in (the injured) Tony Romo’s face. No matter, he’s 6-6 and keeping it respectable.

Eagles 16 Panthers 27

AMOKAH: Never doubted for a second that the underrated Panthers would pull out the W against the Eagles, and that confidence sees Amokah coasting into Monday Night Football with an 10-3 record.

logo_color_squareBENNING: Said the Panthers would remain undefeated against inconsistent Philly, and that takes him to 7-6.

Ravens 18 Cardinals 26

AMOKAH: Jon’s spoiler alert was that the Cards would batter Baltimore in Monday Night Football. It didn’t really go down like that, but it’s hard to argue with a 11-3 record.

logo_color_squareBENNING: Coach also finished with a flourish by picking the Cards to finish with a pretty respectable score of 8-6.

So there we have it. As a result of this week’s scores the Coaches and Staff’s lead after six rounds has been cut to 54-35 to 52-37. It’s still all to play for, so be sure to check back on Thursday for this week’s predictions.

Did any of this week’s results in the NFL surprise you? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment in the box below, by posting on our Facebook page, or by sending us a Tweet.

Head to Head: Amokah v Benning

22 Oct
Michael Dilley All News, Features , , , ,

If there’s one thing sure to split opinion quickly it’s the age-old battle of who knows more about the NFL, the players or the staff?

To try and resolve the issue once and for all players take on coaches and backroom staff one on one to see who really knows their stuff.

The concept is pretty simple: each week one Eagles player and one staff member will go head to head predicting the outcome of the weekend’s NFL games, and by the end of the season the true power houses will emerge.

In week one Wide Receiver Chris Cowley took on Club Chairman and Offensive Coordinator Neale McMaster battled out a 6-10 draw which was followed by Head Coach Will White defeating Tight End Jack Judge by a score of 13-3 to 11-5.

Three weeks ago Vice Chairman Mark Chilton edged passed Offensive Lineman and Rookie of the Year Danny Cousins, a fortnight ago Running back Matt Duffin and Running Backs coach Neil Duffy drew 10-4 and last week Treasurer Michael Dilley saw off the challenge of Wide Receiver Jack Davis-Fletcher.

Heading into this week where Offensive Lineman Jon Amokah meets Youth Team Head Coach Nick Benning, the Coaches and Staff lead the players 46-29 to 41-34.

Let’s see what the weekend has in store…

Seahawks @ 49ers (Thursday Night Football – Sky Sports 1 HD, Friday 01:25)

AMOKAH: The Legion of Boom have been found out! The tape is out on these guys and everyone knows all is not well with the Seahawks Defence. Question is, do Kaepernick and co have what it takes to capitalise? Because with Beast Mode back and the much-anticipated Wilson-Graham connection beginning to blossom, the 49ers D are going to have their hands full. I think they have a lot of upside with Carlos Hyde, and CK has shown he can get the ball to Boldin and Smith, and that’s why the 9ers pip it this week! 49ers to win.

logo_color_squareBENNING: So over the the last couple of seasons this rivalry has been one to watch, this game will be too..but maybe for the wrong reasons. The 2014 NFC title game is a distant memory now. Who has fallen the least in between this season and last? Both teams have a 2-4 record, however when you factor in Russell Wilson’s ability to put points on the 9er’s (nearly three times as many as conceded since he became a starter) you have to go with the Seattle boys. Seahawks to win.

Bills @ Jaguars (International Series – Wembley Stadium)

AMOKAH: The Bills have been the most inconsistent team in the league! Maybe they don’t have an identity under Rex Ryan yet, but as sure as a day is long, they will find it sooner rather than later. In a conference that 8-9 wins could get a playoff spot, the Bills have a compelling reason to decide who they are under Ryan this week in a game that is going to feel more neutral than an away game. With Tyrod Taylor out, it falls to EJ Manuel to find the better form of last season to work into a playoff berth and…screw it, the fact that there is too much going on with the Bills is reason enough to assume the Jags have this! TJ Yeldon is out, but in his place comes the dynamic offensive weapon Dennard Robinson (easy sleeper for this week in fantasy, you heard it hear first), and without the major distraction, the Jags could take this, and are my pick to win this tie. Jaguars win.

logo_color_squareBENNING: In week 1 this actually looked like it might not be as bad a game as it initially looked to me on paper. As in, the Bills looked like they might be a half decent unit and we would get the annual UK romping over the poor Union Jaxs. McCoy? Harvin? What’s not to like? They have however since fallen on inconsistency and so I fear this game will be a bore for all those at WEM-BEER-LEEE on Sunday. Bills to win it, Rambo pick 6….just because he’s called Rambo. Bills to win.

Vikings @ Lions

AMOKAH: I’m going to go on record and say the Lions are too talented to be a 1-5 team. 5th in the league in passing tells it’s own story, but with 3 under-utilised talented backs, not getting much work tells you that Jim Caldwell is not a fan of the running game, since this was the same stuff he pulled with Payton Manning, and Joe Flacco (yes they went on to win Super Bowls under his tutelage, but they still had established running backs who I suspect wouldn’t put up with this). The Vikings have been a one-man organisation for a while and still, Peterson is reliably unstoppable. Lions are at home, and might have an extra dimension if they use the running game, and they should win this with that! But won’t because Jim Caldwell doesn’t like to run! Vikings win.

logo_color_squareBENNING: As a Vikings fan, this one is a no-brainer and luckily we are playing one of the worst teams I’ve seen for a while. Sure the Lions have Megatron, but he’s going to need more than his fair share of Energon cubes to get them through this one. Teddy showed that the Vikes can find some form in the to add to Purple Jesus’s running game. Vikes go 4-2.

Saints @ Colts

AMOKAH: This is personal to me – and I will feel like this for a while – but the Colts are too big for their bridges. I am rooting for, and predicting, the Saints will be all good to part Andrew Luck and co with a W. No questions asked, New Orleans win!

logo_color_squareBENNING: Another game of inconsistent vs incompetent. On paper I should probably go for the Colts, but on the back of Brees and the boys getting the win against the previously undefeated Falcons, I can feel the Saints hitting form. Saints win.

Steelers @ Chiefs

AMOKAH: Since the fall of Big Ben, the Steelers have delivered a masterclass in “Next Man Up”, and getting it done. Something the Chiefs are going to have to learn to do, this week, since the fall of Jamaal Charles. So the Steelers have been doing it longer and this is why they win this week!

logo_color_squareBENNING: When I started playing ball Steelers were THE team. A lot has changed since then and some dark days have lurked, however it seems they are reaching the light at the end of that tunnel. With a 4-2 record so far this season and now playing the Chiefs, happy days in Pittsburgh. So as much as it pains me to pick Mike Keogh’s team…Steelers to win.

Texans @ Dolphins

AMOKAH: Here, we find the two most underachieving defences this year. How Nkomadong Suh doesn’t have the flesh of past quarterbacks between his teeth, this season, is beyond me. But hey, JJ Watt isn’t quite up to the standard we have grown to expect from him either. In fact the only unit I trust in this match up is the Texans offence. With the recent coach changes in Miami, it’s hard to see where the plays are going to come from. Texans win.

logo_color_squareBENNING: Another tough game to call, but for the wrong reasons. Both teams come into this game with losing records so far this season. The ‘Fins look average but do seem to be an improvement on previous seasons. The Texans should be great with the names on that D, but a lackluster O has let them down. However a win in the last game and new Coaches in at the Fins make me go for the guys from the lone star state. Texans to win.

Jets @ Patriots

AMOKAH: There are three things in life you don’t do. You don’t tug on Superman’s Cape, you don’t put Baby in the corner and you sure as hell do not give Belichick and Brady something to prove. And if Deflategate was dying down, all the Colts did last week was open up a fresh wound. Sorry Jets, I like what you are doing, but just not this week! Pats ftw!

logo_color_squareBENNING: Another tough call, but this time for the right reasons. The irresistible force (Pats O) vs the immovable object (Jets D). Post-Rex Ryan Jets look like the team they should have been a few seasons ago, currently 4-1 and looking good for a post-season football bet. The Pats, well are the Pats, when will they stop being good? Currently 5-0, but came from behind in a Monday night shootout! This could be a classic, but I’ll have the Pats to win.

Browns @ Rams

AMOKAH: Nobody wins here, these teams have been indifferent this season. Nick Foles is a far shade from the dude who replaced Michael Vick and torched Tampa Bay two years ago. Joe Haden is missing in action, making this a true coin toss. Yeah, Rams it is.

logo_color_squareBENNING: This won’t be a game for the ages, but could still be surprisingly interesting. Both teams have losing records, however they both have some decent scalps to their names this season. I tried using the Fox Sports predictor to help me with this one…but it went into meltdown. Even in defeat against the Broncos the Browns showed they can put points on the board. So lets go with the Money, Browns to win.

Falcons @ Titans

AMOKAH: What’s not to like about Atlanta? 5-0 (ed-do you want to tell him or shall I?), passing game on point, Devante Freeman a refreshing sight, Defence balling out. And Tennessee aren’t exactly starting fires. Falcons win.

logo_color_squareBENNING: The Falcons dropped the ball big style against the Saints last Thursday. Luckily for them they can regroup against the Titans. The Tennessee squad is very much in development and I doubt they have enough in the locker to put up a real fight. White and Jones to grab a brace each, Falcons to win by 3+ scores.

Buccaneers @ Redskins

AMOKAH: Kirk Cousins, Washington’s answer to a question no one asked. I like what Tampa are trying to do with rookie QB Jamies Winston, but he is not quite fully ready to tear up the league yet. So I am marginally favouring the home side this week. Redskins win.

logo_color_squareBENNING: I’d be impressed if either of these teams managed to win. But sadly in the NFL someone always has to, even the awful teams. The tie-breaker could be the Defence and the Bucs can at least boast their place in the top 5 in both yards against and rushing. Bucs to win by 3 safeties.

Raiders @ Chargers

AMOKAH: With Denver at 5-0, (somehow) this is an opportunity for both sides to pip each other to second spot. With Phillip Rivers propensity to try to be the saviour for the side letting him down, Oakland have a shot at drawing next blood in this sluggish division. And I think they will! Raiders win.

logo_color_squareBENNING: I have to admit to having a soft spot for the Raiders, being a child of the 80’s I can actually remember when they were good…seriously I can! Recent years haven’t been so good for the Silver and Black, however this season they have looked a bit better. Sure they have a losing record so far, but the 3 C’s (Carr, Crabtree and Cooper) do provide a decent threat to any of the other mid-level teams. That brings me on to the Chargers, the no.1 offence in the league so far this season pushes them just out of the mid-level bracket. My heart wants to say Raiders…but I’ll go with my head, Chargers to win.

Cowboys @ Giants

AMOKAH: Cowboys without Romo is something we haven’t seen in a while, predictable! And in a division that nobody seems to want to win, everyone knows exactly how the ‘Boys are going to blow this one. The Defence will hold up, but the offence will continually stall. Provided the Giants turn up. Which they will, as a reaction to the defeat to Philly, Giants win!

logo_color_squareBENNING: Despite the records this could be a great game. I’m not a fan of Romo and I think the Giants D will really get in his face (ed-do you want to tell him or shall I?). Manning, Cruz and Odell Beckham to give the Cowgirls secondary a ‘mare. Giants to win.

Eagles @ Panthers (Sunday Night Football)

AMOKAH: What’s it going to take for the Panthers to be taken seriously? After the comeback against the Seahawks, Carolina are the real deal! Much has been made of Chip Kelly’s trade policy this season, and with reason. Make no mistake, Kelly is a mad man with t team, but not enough to stop Ron Riviera, and co. There is no version of this that Panthers don’t win.

logo_color_squareBENNING: For me the Panthers have been a surprise package this season. Sure we all know Cam is a top draw QB, but it did for a while seem like teams had him figured out. Well I figured wrong. That offence looks great, with a strong running game and the’ve only gone and added my buddy Jared Allen to the D, all be it in what could be his last pro season. Eagles, sadly just don’t have the fire power to stop them. Panthers to go 6-0 and my pick for a Superbowl spot.

Ravens @ Cardinals (MNF)

AMOKAH: BIRD FIGHT!!!! Not really a fight, more of a beat down with Arizona looking to further strengthen their position in the NFC West and the Ravens proving that there are newer ways to lose a game, this isn’t a prediction, this is a spoiler, ARIZONA FOR THE WIN.

logo_color_squareBENNING: Ravens are another team that has fallen from grace in recent times. This season they seem to have hit rock bottom. Flacco and the Cards on the other hand are looking very good with the no.5 ranked Offence. I don’t expect any surprises here, Cards to win by 2 + scores.

Summary

Match Amokah Benning
Seahawks @ 49ers (TNF) 49ers Seahawks
Bills @ Jaguars Jaguars Bills
Vikings @ Lions Vikings Vikings
Saints @ Colts Saints Saints
Steelers @ Chiefs Steelers Steelers
Texans @ Dolphins Texans Texans
Jets @ Patriots Patriots Patriots
Browns @ Rams Rams Browns
Falcons @ Titans Falcons Falcons
Buccaneers @ Redskins Redskins Buccaneers
Raiders @ Chargers Raiders Chargers
Cowboys @ Giants Giants Giants
Eagles @ Panthers (SNF) Panthers Panthers
Ravens @ Cardinals (MNF) Cardinals Cardinals


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